Here are some key characteristics of a predator:
* Hunting behavior: Predators actively pursue, capture, and kill their prey.
* Adapted for killing: Predators often have specialized physical traits (like sharp teeth, claws, or speed) that aid in hunting.
* Dietary needs: Predators rely on meat as their primary food source.
* Importance in the ecosystem: Predators play a vital role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems by controlling prey populations.
It's important to note that the term "predator" can be used in different contexts:
* Biological predator: This refers to the traditional definition outlined above, focusing on animals that kill and eat other animals for food.
* Metaphorical predator: This term can be used figuratively to describe individuals or entities that exploit or take advantage of others, often in a manipulative or harmful way.
Examples of biological predators include lions, wolves, sharks, and eagles.